Before going in I thought this film was about frequent flying. Well, yes, but mostly no. While travel is a central element the movie is actually about relationships, or the lack of relationships, and how different people deal with that fact. George Clooney comes off really well and I can imagine that this film would have been nowhere near as good with someone else in the lead role.
With a 3D movie there is often the tendency to create unnecessary 3D effects such as throwing something or other at the viewer. James Cameron has nicely avoided the 3D theatrics and used depth to make a much more natural experience. Story wise, this film is OK, but if you take the 3D aspect away I'm not sure it would be that great a film. Too often the characters are caricatures, not developed very much and prone to act and say things that seem appropriate only in a movie directed toward younger people not yet learned about how real people act and behave.
Another entry in the long line of films about down-on-their-luck teams finding inspiration in their attempt to achieve championships, but Invictus has some nice character portrayals that lift it above the level of most of the genre. Morgan Freeman stands out as a very convincing Nelson Mandela. Cast because of his resemblance to Mandela (more so than other actors), he also brings some acting chops to the role. Matt Damon won't be remembered for this role as he is very quiet. There are some nice minor characters, in particular Adjoa Andoh who I've seen on the Dr. Who series. One lasting memory will be the little kids who are joyous to see their heroes and celebrate as much or more than the adults.